radon

(noun)

a radioactive chemical element (symbol Rn, formerly Ro) with atomic number 86; one of the noble gases

Related Terms

  • sievert
  • radionuclide

Examples of radon in the following topics:

  • Natural Radioactivity

    • The biggest source of natural background radiation is airborne radon, a radioactive gas that emanates from the ground.
    • Radon and its isotopes, parent radionuclides, and decay products all contribute to an average inhaled dose of 1.26 mSv/a.
    • Radon seeps out of these ores into the atmosphere or into ground water; it can also infiltrate into buildings.
    • Some of these decay products, like radium and radon, are intensely radioactive but occur in low concentrations.
    • Examples of these are radium-226 (a decay product of uranium-238) and radon-222 (a decay product of radium-226).
  • Radioactive Decay Series: Introduction

    • Not only are unstable radium isotopes significant radioactivity emitters, but as the next stage in the decay chain they also generate radon, a heavy, inert, naturally occurring radioactive gas.
    • Rock containing thorium and/or uranium (such as some granites) emits radon gas, which can accumulate in enclosed places such as basements or underground mines.
    • Radon exposure is considered the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.
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